King County's unsurpassed quality of life is owed to its amazing diversity of natural resources. Within this county, you can find 760 lakes and reservoirs, 3,000 miles of streams, 800,000 acres of forestland, 975 wetlands, four major river systems and 100 miles of marine coastline. Protecting and improving these natural resources is a priority for King County. From recycling programs to salmon watching opportunities, King County has many programs that involve the public in enhancing the environment we value so highly.

October is the time when Northwest Salmon begin their long journey back to the streams and rivers of their birth to spawn. This incredible migratory journey is one of nature's great wonders, and King County's Cedar River is one of the many spots to view returning salmon. Click here to learn about the best spots to view salmon on the Cedar River and when and where volunteers will be to answer questions about the salmon's journey home. Want to be a volunteer Salmon Watcher? Visit the Salmon Watcher Program Web site for more information!

The Cedar River won't be the only northwest tributary full of homecoming salmon this October. King County has many spectacular spots to view spawning salmon. To find a spot that is near your home, click here! Our region also features a number of local festivals that celebrate the returning salmon. King County's Salmon Watching Web site includes information about many of the local festivities.

Given the deterioration of environment, Northwest salmon face mounting challenges each year they return to their original habitat. There are many opportunities for people to help salmon make their long, difficult trek home. Visit the Pitch in for Salmon Habitat homepage to find out where you can grab a shovel, lend a hand, and help your local salmon!

Don't have time to heft a shovel? There are many other things you can do to help the salmon. What's the best way? Practice Salmon Friendly Living! The King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks has put together a list of programs and tips to help make your lifestyle salmon friendly.

Did you know that the King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks has a wide variety of tools, resources and programs to aid students, teachers, and educators? Ranging from programs for school to resources to help with homework, King County offers plenty of ways to educate yourself, your family, and your friends about the environment. Click here for more details.

King County Metro Transit can provide free transportation to go on water quality education field trips. It is true! Go to the Wheels to Water homepage for more information.

Help save native plants from destruction! The Department of Natural Resources' Native Plant Salvage Program uses volunteers to move plants from sites that are scheduled for construction. Check out the Calendar of Events if you want to get involved!

You can't miss all the farms in the Pacific Northwest and their delicious fresh fruits and vegetables! The King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks provides a comprehensive guide called Puget Sound Fresh, which gives an in-depth look at the farms, farmers markets and produce from around our region. Also, if you're going out to eat, we've got a list you want to see! Click here for information about restaurants that feature products from local farms!

"Is this recyclable?" Do you hear this question in your house? Doesn't everybody! The King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks' Sold Waste Division's Recycling Homepage takes a comprehensive look at what can, and can't, be recycled. Do you have old electronics that need to be recycled? Visit the Take It Back Network Web site for more information.

What could be better than a stroll through the park on brisk, sunny fall day in the Northwest? Visit the King County Park Locator to find the King County park closest to your home.

Do you want to do your part to help your local environment? King County can help. Click here to learn about the many services and resources that are available to help you in quest to live a "greener" existence.

Would you like to start composting at your home? Certain King County residents are eligible for discounted composting bins? Click here for more details about King County's exclusive offer and links to information that will answer all you composting questions. What is one of the best ways to protect the environment? Ride the bus, of course! Take a look at Metro Online to find information about Pass Sales, Trip Planning, and how to take Metro to events like the Seahawks game! You can also fine information about Rideshare and other Travel Options.

You can even get your daily exercise on the way to the bus stop (and also make your commute 100 % car free). All Metro buses are equipped with bike racks, allowing you to store your bike for no extra fare. Click here for important details and safety information about using the Metro bike racks.

King County Metro is one of the most environmentally friendly transit agencies in the country, and its brand new hybrid-electric buses part of the reason. Click here for more information, or check out the FAQs about all of Metro's clean air technology.

Healthier travel choices lead to healthier bodies and a cleaner environment. King County Metro has been trying a new approach to help people better understand and use the wide range of travel options available to them. This demonstration program, called In Motion, is being tried in three neighborhoods in King County. Visit the In Motion Web site for more information.

King County has taken on several projects that have helped restore and improve salmon habitat. Learn more about these projects and how they help Northwest salmon by clicking here, and going to The Road to Salmon Recovery Web site.

Natural resources news

• Natural Resources Month Recognition
• Fall For Salmon

Related agencies

• Department of Natural Resources and Parks
• Department of Transportation
• Public Health Seattle & King County
• King County Executive – Salmon Conservation and Recovery

Previously In Focus

• Education
• Human services
• Transportation
• Health

Did you know